Guilford ABC Celebrates Selection as a Stop & Shop Community Bag Program Beneficiary

Guilford ABC has been selected as a beneficiary of the Stop & Shop Community Bag Program for the month of January.

The Stop & Shop Community Bag Program, which launched in May 2019, is a reusable bag program that facilitates community support with the goal to make a difference in the communities where shoppers live and work.

Guilford ABC was selected as the January beneficiary of the program by store leadership at the Stop & Shop located in Madison (128 Samson Rock Drive). Guilford ABC will receive a $1 donation every time the $2.50 reusable Community Bag is purchased at this location during January, unless otherwise directed by the customer through the Giving Tag attached to the bag.

“What a great way to show support for the community,” said Georgia Cosgrove, Co-president of Guilford ABC. “We’re pleased that Stop & Shop has recognized the value of Guilford ABC, both for our scholars and for the community at large.”

Now in its 48th year, Guilford ABC — A Better Chance —is dedicated to helping close the opportunity gap for academically talented students of color from educationally disadvantaged communities. Our scholars are young women selected from a national application pool for their academic and leadership potential. The program exists to help these scholars attend a four-year college track program in our community, attend a college or university of their choice and become confident, contributing members of our society. Guilford ABC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

For more information on the Stop & Shop Community Bag Program, visit stopandshop.2givelocal.com.

Holy Smokes! Hole in the Wall is on Fire!

Let’s face it, there aren’t many businesses in Guilford today that were around when the Hole in the Wall (HITW) was founded in 1974 to Support Guilford ABC. Think Bishop’s, Page Hardware, Frank’s Package Store, Guilford Savings Bank, the Coin Exchange, and J.J. Sullivan. There aren’t many more survivors of the fickle whims of local commerce in the downtown area.

And not only has HITW survived, but it has also expanded and thrived, first moving to the current Boston Street location from the Water Street shops, and then expanding into additional space that became available in 2018. Despite fears that the four-month shutdown during COVID would curtail the momentum, business has been better than ever, and the revenue has continued as a vital component of the Guilford ABC operating budget. All those months we spent at home yielded a bonanza of donations and consignments that translated into strong sales, and word spread through Best of the Shoreline accolades, word of mouth, and social media that in this new era in which “thrifting” has lost its stigma, HITW is one of the best destinations around for selection and value. We not only provide quality merchandise at affordable prices in a time of many economic challenges, but we are loved by our loyal customers—and we are cool!

But there is a caveat. This level of success is labor intensive. Since the beginning, the HITW business plan has relied heavily on volunteers. Patty Sullivan and her team of managers are amazing, but they can’t do it all. Sadly, but not surprisingly, we lost a number of volunteers during the pandemic. So, as all survivors do, we pivot. We were fortunate to hire Tarren Bailey as our newest manager. Tarren comes to the job with a multifaceted skill set that includes professional photography, marketing, and work with volunteers. She will be assuming the role of Volunteer Coordinator to help rebuild and nurture our pool of volunteers to support our paid staff. She will also be in charge of our social media presence. You can contact her at hiwabc@gmail.com if you want to sign up for a volunteer shift or have a contact with a civic or church group that you would like to share.

Welcome Tarren and kudos to Patty, Christina, Joanie, Bette, Katie, Amy, and Ella for jobs well done! t

Welcome Scholars!

KYRA

Hi! I’m Kyra Amani and I am a freshman with Guilford ABC. I am from Andover, Massachusetts, though I was born in Kenya and moved to the U.S when I was 3 years old. Andover is a pretty average-sized tight-knit town and a lot like Guilford. It’s a great place to live, with most food and attractions being a short drive away, nicely rated schools, an active community and town spirit, and thankfully it’s near a lot of my family. I live with my mom Leah, my little sister Nala (who turns 1 on October 14th!), and my stepdad Michael. I’m interested in many random topics, but my top three are music, forensics, and psychology. I really hope in the future to pursue a career that surrounds at least one of those areas.

I chose Guilford because I wanted to experience life as a teenager almost completely independently. I felt it would be able to set me up for college so that I don’t have to struggle as much. I also found a big appeal in living with other black female teens because I thought it would be a fun experience as well as a way to figure out who I am as a black woman in America.

TAMOJAH

I’m Tamojah Tomlinson, a freshman at Guilford ABC from Bridgeport, CT. I chose Guilford because of the support they give to their scholars. While being here I’ve done things I would never have thought about doing before I arrived. School is going well, and I’ve already made many supportive connections with program staff and advisors that have helped with the transition. I’ve also found that living at the ABC house is a lot easier than I thought it would be! Everyone got close to each other faster than I expected. 

ANDREA

Hi! I’m Andrea Kaluma, a junior at GHS. This summer, I did an online medical internship at Georgetown dedicated to high school students who are interested in going down the pre-med path. Initially, I was more inclined towards law and politics but after chatting with a couple of medical professionals and the exposure ABC gave me last year, I decided to give this course a try. I loved it! The program was run by a professor named Dr. Malika Danner. We each had a mentor who guided us throughout the duration of the program. These mentors were med students who took the time to help us and give us insight on what we had difficulty with. I still keep in contact with mine from time to time!

We learned about Evidence-based Medicine and how it is utilized to help medical professionals assess the best treatments for their patients. Through this, we delved into clinical research and trials, discussing the ethics and integrity of evidence-based medicine. After learning more, we got to do a mini capstone project on a type of carcinoma/cancer. I chose Breast Cancer and researched how a certain chemo drug affects middle aged women with breast cancer. This one hit especially close to home because people in my own family have suffered from the disease. It taught me the importance of how putting people on the right medication/therapy by doing the proper research can make a difference in the patients’ lives.

JASMINE

Hello, I’m Jasmine Laryea and I’m currently a junior at GHS. This summer I attended a two-week program at Wellesley College in Massachusetts. There I was able to study and learn more about Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Technology. It was so interesting to explore the ethics and advancements in AI. I learned many new things and was able to show my understanding through presentations and debates. I also went on many fun and educational trips to Harvard, MIT, Six Flags, and White-Water Rafting.

This year my extracurriculars include Dance Club, Pep Rally Committee, Anime Club, Theater, and Interact. These clubs paired with my rigorous International Baccalaureate and honors courses will make for an exciting school year!

KILEE

This summer I was given the humbling opportunity to take part in an intensive summer program across the world in Accra, Ghana. From drinking out of glass Coca-Cola bottles at the Erata Hotel to recess with the six-, seven-, and eight-year-olds, my experience was incomparable. I, as a high school senior confronting college applications and SATs, was given the chance to feel like a kid again when being introduced to their games such as Lion, Colors, Cinderella, Cinderella, and so much more. 

My second week there, after meeting the kids, walking the grounds of Young Leaders school, and catching sight of an area I could lend a helping hand, I emailed my principal, Ms. Julia Chaffe, and asked if she knew of any grant opportunities that would allow the class of 2023 and I to purchase school supplies for the students at Young Leaders. She enthusiastically replied, and a plan has already been set for us to begin the works on bringing this to fruition. By the end of the trip, the idea of meaningful service truly affixed itself within, and I aspire to encourage those around me to always be willing to do charitable work. 

JANELLE

Hi, my name is Janelle Wilkinson and I am a senior. Over the summer I had the amazing opportunity to study abroad for two weeks in London for theater and behind the scenes. We saw many plays such as Julius Caesar at the Globe, Who Killed my Father?, Favour, and The White Card. We also took improv classes and got to perform our own short play at the end of the program.

I plan to spend this year being a lab assistant during my study halls and putting in more time outside of school studying. In addition, I will be doing props in theater and will be a frequent member of Interact and Anime Club.  

New Beginnings

FROM CO-PRESIDENT JUDY WRIGHT

The transition from summer to school mode couldn’t have gone better this year. Our six GABC students moved into the house on Labor Day and began school the next day. We welcomed our newest scholars, Kyra and Tamojah, both 9th graders. Returning for their senior year are Janelle and Kilee and rounding out the six are Andrea and Jasmine in 11th grade. The older girls are so helpful with the new students that it’s as if they have four older sisters!

The summer was filled with some exciting programs for our girls. Janelle traveled to London and Kilee to Ghana. Jasmine attended an AI and Machine Learning program at Wellesley College and Andrea participated in an online medical program at Georgetown University.

Janelle and Kilee are busy working on their college applications and living the life of a high school senior – very busy and somewhat stressful. But they still find the time to participate in all the household activities with smiles on their faces. Andrea and Jasmine attended a college fair a few weeks ago and take the PSATs this month. They are fully immersed in their challenging junior year classes as well as many extracurricular activities. Our 9th graders, Kyra and Tamojah, have adjusted quickly and fit in with the group as if they’ve been here for longer than a month.

In August, we were fortunate to find our new cook, Tracey Asti. She brings so much positive energy to her position and is willing to try out new recipes that the girls will like. And the girls love her food! Tracy is a former employee of Hole in the Wall, so she was already familiar with our program.

On the afternoon of October 2, a cold and windy day, we gathered at Jacobs Beach for our annual welcome picnic. But it was so cold — as you can see from the photos — we moved it to the ABC house. It was a wonderful afternoon with families, volunteers, and the students. Thanks to Lynn for making the house available for everyone to use.

This academic year, the Guilford ABC Education Fund is helping five alumnae attend school: Sumaiyah Lee at Loyola Marymount University; T-Jauni Barham at Trinity College; Julia Antwi-Boasiaku at New York University; Lauren Cyrus at Hampton University; Arianna Alvarez Pena at Tufts University. We are so proud of these students and what they are accomplishing in their lives.

We are very appreciative of our many GABC and Hole in the Wall volunteers and staff, our donors and sponsors and all community members and Guilford High School personnel that support our mission. It takes a village, and we are stronger for it.

Honoring Hole in the Wall Volunteers

Patty Sullivan knows how to thank her volunteers in style by throwing a great party! On May 5, HITW staff and volunteers, GABC staff, board members and scholars all gathered at Woodwinds to eat, drink and be merry. The gala was emceed by DJ John “Cadillac” Seville, who generously donated his services for the event, and the dance floor was full throughout the evening. After the isolation of COVID everyone was ready to kick up their heels and have some fun. Thank you to all for your hard work that has helped to make the award-winning HITW more profitable than ever! (Photos by Tarren Bailey Photography)t

And now for some horn-tooting…

Along with having a lot of fun times, our scholars worked very hard this year and reaped awards and honors. Kilee Simon was inducted into the National Honor Society and received the Advanced Placement Language Award. Jasmine Laryea received the Sophomore Chemistry Award. Junior Janelle Wilkinson received the Environmental Science Award, and Arianna Alvarez Pena received the Global Seal of Biliteracy. (Pictured are at left Kilee Simon, classmate Fareed Samu, Janelle Wilkinson, and Jasmine Laryea; at right Kilee Simon.)

Guilford ABC Grateful for Selection as a Big Y Community Bag Program Beneficiary

Guilford ABC has been selected as a beneficiary of the Big Y Community Bag Program for the month of September.

The Big Y Community Bag Program, which launched in January 2019, is a reusable bag program that facilitates community support with the goal to make a difference in the communities where shoppers live and work.

Guilford ABC was selected as the beneficiary of the program by store leadership at Guilford Big Y. During the month of September, GABC will receive a $1 donation every time the $2.50 reusable Community Bag is purchased at this location unless otherwise directed by the customer through the Giving Tag attached to the bag.

“What a great way to show support for the community, especially in these difficult times,” said Georgia Cosgrove, Co-president of Guilford ABC. “We’re pleased that Big Y has recognized the value of Guilford ABC, both for our scholars and for the community at large.”

Now in its 48th year, Guilford ABC — A Better Chance —is dedicated to helping close the opportunity gap for academically talented students of color from educationally disadvantaged communities. Our scholars are young women selected from a national application pool for their academic and leadership potential. The program exists to help these scholars attend a four-year college track program in our community, attend a college or university of their choice and become confident, contributing members of our society. Guilford ABC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. For more information about the program, visit www.guilfordabc.org.

For more information on the Big Y Community Bag Program, visit bigy.bags4mycause.com.

End of Year ABC Celebration

On June 1, GABC hosted our annual year-end celebration under the tent at GHS. About 70 board members, donors, host families, staff, alumnae and all the current scholars gathered to give thanks for another successful year, say goodbye to outgoing board members and our graduating senior, Arianna Alvarez Pena, and welcome some of our incoming board members.

Highlights of the evening included a visit from last year’s graduate, Lauren Cyrus, who delivered a lively account of her first year at Hampton University and how her GABC experience set the stage for a successful transition to college life; compelling remarks from alumna Naralys Sinanis from the class of 2002 about how GABC had incredible impact on her success in college and her career; and a farewell message from Arianna. Guests at the celebration included outgoing ABC President Marie Berry, board member Melissa Dayton, and Resident Director Lynn Prendergas (above).

Advisory Board member, Connie Dickinson, presented Arianna with her GABC College Education Fund award, which she will use to offset education expenses at Tufts not covered by her scholarship. This fund is held at the Guilford Foundation, Awards to GABC graduates are $2,500 for each of four years of college, provided the scholar remains in good standing with at least a B average.

Summers at the ABC House

FROM RESIDENT DIRECTOR LYNN PRENDERGAST

The summer is a very busy time of the year at the house. After a bittersweet goodbye to Arianna as she heads off to summer and then Tufts, meetings started to prepare for the 2022-2023 school year. Working on the calendar with incoming co-presidents Georgia Cosgrove and Judy Wright, preparing a To-Do List with Ann Street (House and Grounds Chair) for the house, and making preparations for the returning scholars have already started. Summers are a great time to reflect on our year as we look forward to the upcoming year. The scholars worked, played, and socialized at a high level all year long as COVID restrictions became less and less. Their numerous accomplishments and determination to do their best this past school year makes me so happy and proud. In my unique position, I am not only able to celebrate their successes, but see the tremendous effort and overcoming of challenges to allow them to be their personal best. After a month of visiting family in Florida and Georgia, I will return to the quiet house and prepare for the return of the girls. They will arrive with cars busting with their personal belongings, tales of their summer adventures, and excitement to welcome our new scholars, Kyra and Tamojah, and to see old friends.

ABOVE: fire pit fun with Arianna, Janelle and Andrea; going to prom are Andrea, Janelle, Jasmine, and Kilee; Arianna celebrates gradation with her friend Olivia Turcio.

Celebrations & Transitions

FROM CO-PRESIDENT GEORGIA COSGROVE

The end of the school year and the beginning of July each year mark important milestones for GABC. This is when we watch our seniors graduate from GHS and leave us to prepare for their next steps on their educational paths. This year’s graduate, Arianna Alvarez Pena, will be heading for Tufts in the fall with a full scholarship. We are thrilled for her and couldn’t be prouder of her many accomplishments during her four years under our roof. We have watched her blossom from a shy, observant freshman into a self-assured, motivated young woman who knows what she wants and is going after it.

We look forward to watching our two dynamic rising seniors follow in Arianna’s footsteps as they navigate the challenges and choices of senior year. After ending her junior year having been elected Co-President of the senior class, Kilee Simon is traveling to Ghana with CIEE this summer on a full scholarship. Janelle Wilkinson will be spending a month in London, also on a full scholarship from CIEE. Stay tuned for reports on their experiences in the fall!

We kicked off our summer with the annual MJ Petretto Foundation golf fundraiser at the Wallingford Country Club in June. Despite storms that shortened play it was a great event! We are grateful to all who participated on our behalf, and to the M.J. Petretto Foundation for once again supporting GABC with a portion of the proceeds from this event.

July 1 marked a changing of the guard on our board with retirements and election of new members. As I write this, I have just begun my second year as Co-President. Long-time board member Judy Wright has stepped up to the other Co-President spot as Marie Berry makes a well-deserved transition to the Advisory Board after more than 15 years of service, the last 3 as board President. Heartfelt thanks to both Marie and Judy for their dedication and hard work supporting our scholars and keeping GABC running smoothly despite COVID-19 and the many day-to-day challenges of overseeing a household of active teenagers.

Others departing the board include Susan Renner, who served ably and tirelessly as our Treasurer for 3 years; Lisa Rogers, who did an amazing job with overseeing the recruitment and screening of new scholars; Susan Welsh, who headed up Student Life and will continue to manage insurance for us as a member of the Advisory Board; Cathy O’Keefe, who served as Vice President and headed the Personnel committee; and Mary Lane, who served on House and Grounds. We are grateful to all for your commitment to GABC.

Finally, we welcome a multi-talented roster of new board members: Mary Cosgrove, Pam Glasser, Dani Howard, Mike Hryb, Mark Mackowiak, and Jenny Schaffer. We will also welcome two talented new freshmen in September, Kyra and Tamojah.

We are deeply grateful for all of our donors and sponsors, volunteers for GABC and the Hole in the Wall, and our amazing staff who all work together to support our mission. Visit guilfordabc.org to check the latest news or make a donation—and enjoy the summer while it lasts!

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GABC will mark its 50th anniversary in 2024. To honor this milestone, please consider providing for the next 50 years by adding a legacy gift to GABC to your estate plans. If you have questions about this please contact Georgia Cosgrove at gabcmain@gmail.com.